Chivalry and the opened doors of perception

Chivalry shouldn’t die at the door, but the etiquette requires examination.

A month ago, I was entering an Oceanside Starbucks 15 feet ahead of a woman.

As I was raised to do, I opened the door and allowed her to enter. (Mind you, this common courtesy is not a reflection of good character. I bet there are ax murderers with the courtliness of a 5-star concierge.)

“Thank you,” the woman said and swept into line without a backward glance.

I followed her, kvetching to myself about the time I’d lost. Not only had she enjoyed a hands-free ride into the cafe, she’d felt entitled to take my place in line.

As it happens, I was meeting someone at a Del Mar Starbucks last week.